Predator Rapist Locked Up for Six Years After Party Assault
Marcelle DaCosta, 36, of West End Avenue, Leyton, was sentenced to six years behind bars at Wood Green Crown Court on Wednesday, 29 March. The jury found him unanimously guilty of rape following his trial, which ended on Monday, 16 January.
Victim Attended Party Before Horrific Attack
The victim, a woman in her 20s, went to a party in Enfield on 6 February 2021. She later left but ended up at two other addresses with DaCosta and two others. Despite twice trying to leave the gatherings, in the early hours of 7 February, the woman fell asleep at the second address in Enfield – where DaCosta raped her.
Swift Police Action and Support for Victim
The victim reported the vile attack to police a week later, on 13 February 2021. Officers from the North Area Public Protection team launched an immediate probe. DaCosta was arrested on 19 April and charged on 23 December 2021. Throughout the process, specialist officers supported the victim.
Investigator Slams DaCosta as ‘Dangerous and Predatory’
Detective Sergeant Myles Bossman, who led the investigation, said: “DaCosta is an extremely dangerous and predatory individual who will now spend a significant period of time behind bars. He subjected a woman scarcely known to him to a serious sexual assault and has shown no remorse for his actions.”
“While this case has now concluded, I hope it sends a strong message that the Met is committed to supporting victims of sexual violence and working tirelessly to ensure those who commit such despicable crimes are put before the courts to face the consequences.”
Speak Up and Get Help
If you need to report a crime, call police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Officers trained to handle sexual violence cases are ready to listen and act. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit their website.
